From the CE: International education in the spotlight

Kia ora koutou,  

I’ve recently returned to New Zealand following a productive visit to Viet Nam with the Prime Minister’s Trade Mission. It was highly encouraging to see international education front and centre of so many conversations. Beyond attracting Vietnamese students to New Zealand, the education relationship between our countries is evolving into deeper collaborations involving education institutions, businesses, and governments. 

The visit also showcased outstanding examples of educational partnerships across the spectrum of New Zealand’s international education sector, from universities and private training establishments to EdTech companies, highlighting the breadth of collaboration opportunities. 

Overall, the Mission was a valuable opportunity to raise awareness of New Zealand as a top-tier education destination offering a safe and welcoming environment.  

International education was also a component of Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Rt Hon Winston Peters’ official visit to China. As part of his programme, the Minister had a warm meeting with Chinese alumni of New Zealand universities. From the report back, it was clear that the New Zealand study experience had left the alumni with a lasting, positive impression.  

Coming up in May, ENZ will be going into the field for the 2025 International Student Experience Survey. This survey covers a range of topics relevant to the sector, including student decision-making, arrival and orientation, the education experience, living experience, people and connections, and perceptions of value for money. 

Last year’s survey had 86 percent of international students reporting a positive overall experience of their time in New Zealand, and 41 percent of students giving an ‘excellent’ rating, the highest percentage yet! In case you missed deep diving into specific aspects of the student experience, you can browse through them here. 

I’ve started packing my bags again, as this weekend I will be joining the Prime Minister’s Trade Mission to India. I’ll be staying on for a further week in Delhi for APAIE 2025. I look forward to updating you in my next column. 

Ngā mihi nui, 

Amanda Malu 

Chief Executive  

Education New Zealand Manapou ki te Ao